The U.S. Space Force will open its FY27 interservice transfer application window Sept. 15 through Oct. 2, 2026.
The Interservice Transfer program , or IST, allows qualified regular component, full-time, active-duty officers and enlisted members serving in the U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy and Marine Corps to apply for transfer into the Space Force. The program gives the service an additional pathway to bring experienced military talent into select career fields as the Space Force continues to grow and build the force required to meet evolving mission demands.
“As we continue to grow, interservice transfers provide an opportunity to bring experienced talent into our force who can contribute to the mission from day one,” said Katharine Kelley , deputy chief of space operations for personnel. “IST allows us to build on the expertise already developed across the joint force while continuing to shape the Guardian workforce we need for the future.”
All eligible ranks and career fields may apply, but the Space Force is particularly interested in mid-grade officers and enlisted service members with space-related experience. Desired officer backgrounds include space operations, cyber, intelligence, acquisitions and engineering. Desired enlisted backgrounds include intelligence, space systems operations or engineering, and imagery analysis.
In addition, applicants possessing space-related functional areas, Additional Skill Identifiers, Navy enlisted classifications or Air Force specialty codes, or specialized background experience are highly encouraged to apply, regardless of their primary branch or military specialty.
Service members who are interested should review the specific eligibility requirements, application instructions, required documents, and official program guidance prior to applying via the Space Force Transfer program website. They are also encouraged to coordinate early with their chain of command and ensure all required materials are complete prior to submission.
Applicants must meet all published eligibility criteria and complete required application actions by the Oct. 2 deadline. Submission of an application does not guarantee selection, and transfer remains subject to service requirements and completion of all required coordination and approval steps.
The Space Force will review applications after the window closes and will provide additional information on board timelines, notification procedures, and projected transfer actions on the Transfers page.